Deaths of Despair

In a remote corner of Maine that locals call ‘The Forgotten County,’ the pandemic triggered isolation, economic struggles and a surge in suicides and overdoses. Hindered by a lack of mental health resources, communities and schools in Washington County banded together to find help for those with anxiety, depression and despair. The Maine Monitor chronicles the heartbreaking losses in a county that seeks solace and solutions to prevent more tragedies.

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Barely hanging on

Her grandson took his life. Then her daughter overdosed. “When people are crying for help, you’ve got to take them seriously,” said Rhonda McIver.

ByBarbara A. Walsh

May 16, 2021

Overdose deaths leave a Maine tribe reeling

As the pandemic worsened mental health and substance use challenges statewide, a record-high 58 people died from overdoses in January. The losses have hit the Passamaquoddy tribe especially hard.

ByBarbara A. Walsh

May 9, 2021

A need for awareness

In a county with few mental health resources, community members are rallying to increase peer support and education around suicide.

ByBarbara A. Walsh

April 11, 2021

Alone with the grief, alone with the pain

The Stewarts are just one family in Washington County forced to struggle with suicide in an area where demand for help far outweighs the number of mental health providers.

ByBarbara A. Walsh

April 11, 2021

The crushing toll of a pandemic in Maine’s ‘forgotten county’

During a tragic winter that saw four suicides and prolonged isolation, Baileyville Police Chief Bob Fitzsimmons has served as a guardian, confidant and friend to the people in northeastern Washington County.

ByBarbara A. Walsh

April 11, 2021